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Average Price: $824

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$400

$1001+

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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "G&L s500". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The G&L S-500 is a quintessential electric guitar that blends classic design with modern innovation, crafted for musicians who crave versatility and precision. Born from the legendary mind of Leo Fender, this solid body electric guitar encapsulates a Stratocaster-inspired aesthetic while offering a unique tonal experience that sets it apart from its peers. At its core are three meticulously crafted single-coil pickups, engineered to deliver crisp, dynamic tones that can seamlessly transition from warm, mellow strums to bright, punchy riffs.

What truly distinguishes the G&L S-500 is its Dual-Fulcrum Vibrato system, providing a smooth and stable tremolo action that enhances your playability without compromising tuning stability. Its construction allows for either an Ash or Mahogany body, offering musicians a choice between a lighter, more resonant sound or a denser, more focused tone. The neck construction evolved in 1997 from a three-bolt to a four-bolt design, ensuring enhanced durability and playability for today's demanding musicians.

This instrument's versatility and robust build make it a staple in any guitarist's collection, whether you're performing on stage or jamming in the studio. It's not just another guitar; it's a nod to the timeless legacy of innovation and craftsmanship, perfect for those who seek to push musical boundaries.

Key Features:

  • Stratocaster-inspired design
  • Three single-coil pickups by Leo Fender
  • Dual-Fulcrum Vibrato system for enhanced playability
  • Choice of Ash or Mahogany body
  • Evolved neck design from three-bolt to four-bolt for added durability and stability

Product specs

Brand G&L
Model S-500 USA
Finish Common Finish
Year 2000s
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the G&L S-500 and how does it affect playability?

The G&L S-500 features a Medium C neck profile, which offers a comfortable grip for most players, balancing ease of chord playing and single-note runs. This profile is versatile, making it suitable for various playing styles.

What kind of pickups does the G&L S-500 have and what tones can I expect?

The G&L S-500 is equipped with Leo Fender-designed MFD single-coil pickups, providing a bright and punchy tone with enhanced clarity and dynamic range. These pickups are versatile, suitable for genres ranging from rock to blues and funk.

Is the G&L S-500 suitable for beginners or more advanced players?

The G&L S-500 is designed for both intermediate and advanced players, offering high-quality components and versatile tonal options that may be more appreciated by those with some playing experience.

What is the G&L S-500's tremolo system like?

The G&L S-500 uses a Leo Fender-designed Dual-Fulcrum vibrato, allowing smooth pitch bending and greater tuning stability compared to traditional tremolo systems. This makes it ideal for expressive playing styles.

How does the push/pull expander work on the G&L S-500?

The push/pull expander on the G&L S-500's treble pot enables additional pickup combinations, including neck+bridge or all three pickups together, offering a wider range of tonal possibilities for the player.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

G&L S-500

Video thumbnail for G&L S-500 by ProGuitarShopDemos

G&L S-500

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for Fender Strat vs G&L S500 Which Do You Like More? by Marty Music

Fender Strat vs G&L S500 Which Do You Like More?

Marty Music

Marty Music

Video thumbnail for G&L S 500: Tone Review and Demo with Paul Gagon by MusicStoreLive.com

G&L S 500: Tone Review and Demo with Paul Gagon

MusicStoreLive.com

MusicStoreLive.com

Video thumbnail for DIFFERENCES?! G&L S500 & LEGACY TESTED | Cory Mura by Cory Mura

DIFFERENCES?! G&L S500 & LEGACY TESTED | Cory Mura

Cory Mura

Cory Mura

Video thumbnail for MAHOGANY STRAT! G&L S500 /full review 4k || CoryMura by Cory Mura

MAHOGANY STRAT! G&L S500 /full review 4k || CoryMura

Cory Mura

Cory Mura

Video thumbnail for G&L S-500 by The Guitar World Canada

G&L S-500

The Guitar World Canada

The Guitar World Canada

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about G&L s500.

Features and functionality

  • The PTB (passive treble bass) system allows extensive tone shaping, enabling users to dial in traditional Strat sounds by adjusting the volume and EQ knobs.

    Source
  • The G&L S-500 can achieve a more traditional Strat sound by adjusting the volume and bass knobs, as noted by users who frequently play with pedals.

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  • The G&L S-500's treble bleed circuit allows volume reduction without significant tone change, providing versatility and a full EQ profile.

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  • The G&L's tremolo system is considered superior to traditional Stratocasters, contributing to its unique tone and playability.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Some users experience uneven frets and noticeable fret buzz, particularly audible through an amplifier, which may require neck relief adjustments.

    Source

Build quality

  • The push-pull pot is difficult to operate and feels cheap, with a tendency to loosen, suggesting potential need for modification or replacement.

    Source
  • The fretboard on certain G&L S-500 models is made from Brazilian Cherry, providing a distinct visual appeal compared to standard rosewood or ebony.

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User experience

  • The poly gloss finish on the neck and headstock, while glossy and premium-looking, has been described as surprisingly comfortable and non-sticky.

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  • Owners note the G&L's MFD pickups deliver a more mid-focused tone, described as having the "cutt-iest Strat tones possible."

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Comparisons

  • Users transitioning from Gibson-style guitars note the S-500's unique single-coil sounds, which influence playing style and offer a more dynamic, clean tone.

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  • Users often prefer the G&L S-500 over the Fender Player Series due to its deeper, darker sound profile from the MFD pickups, especially when budget is a concern.

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  • The Comanche model enables activating Tele pickup positions or all three pickups, offering a sound that combines P90 fullness with Jazzmaster-like jangle.

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  • The Comanche's ability to replicate Fender tones closely is noted, yet it lacks the pure vintage Strat sound.

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Use cases and applications

  • The American-made MFD pickups deliver versatile, clear, and articulate tones, suitable for clean tones that handle overdrive well.

    Source
  • The G&L's sound is likened to a P90 but with less grit, making it suitable for a fuller EQ and powerful sound, not vintage Strat tones.

    Source

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